As Kansas City hosts global soccer matches, thousands of visitors — from across the U.S. and around the world — will gather in our region. Large international events bring excitement and economic opportunity, but they also require extra awareness around health, safety and community readiness.
International events are a chance to showcase Missouri’s hospitality. With a little preparation and awareness, we can help our state, communities, care providers ensure Kansas City remains a safe, welcoming, and healthy place for both residents and visitors.
This guide highlights what Missourians should know to stay safe, protect their families, and support a healthy environment for all.
Why This Matters
Major sporting events can increase:
- Travel-related illness and disease spread
- Strain on local health care systems
- Public safety and crowd management challenges
- Risks related to heat (seasonal), dehydration and injuries
Health officials emphasize that strong planning, public awareness and community coordination are key to keeping people safe during large events.
How Health Care Organizations Are Preparing
Health care systems across Missouri — and especially in the Kansas City region — have been planning for years to support this large international event. Their efforts focus on readiness, coordination and rapid response.
Increased Staffing & Capacity
- Hospitals and urgent care centers are preparing for higher patient volumes
- Additional staff may be scheduled during peak event days
- Emergency departments are planning for surge capacity
Emergency Preparedness & Coordination
- Hospitals are working closely with local public health, emergency management, EMS and law enforcement partners
- Regional response plans are in place for large-scale emergencies
- Systems are coordinating to ensure patients can be routed efficiently if one facility becomes overwhelmed
Public Health Monitoring
- Health departments are increasing surveillance for infectious diseases
- Systems are prepared to quickly identify and respond to potential outbreaks
- Coordination with national and global health partners helps track emerging risks
Training & Simulation Exercises
- Health care teams are participating in drills for mass casualty and high patient volume scenarios
- Staff are receiving additional training on crowd-related injuries, heat illness and infectious disease response
Communication & Community Guidance
- Health care organizations are working to provide clear, timely information to the public
- Multilingual resources may be available to support international visitors
- Messaging focuses on prevention, when and where to seek care, and how to stay safe
- Communication Toolkit Resources are available
What This Means For You
Health care teams are preparing so that care remains available and responsive — but taking simple precautions yourself helps reduce strain on the system and keeps everyone safer.
Health Tips for Attendees & Residents
Stay Healthy in Crowded Spaces
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid attending events if you feel sick
- Stay up to date on routine immunizations and vaccines you and your trusted health provider have determined are appropriate for you and your family members
- Be mindful of respiratory illnesses, especially in crowded indoor areas
Heat & Hydration Safety
Summer matches can mean high temperatures:
- Drink water regularly (don’t wait until you’re thirsty)
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas
- Apply sunscreen, wear UPF-rated clothing and seek shaded areas during peak UV periods to prevent sunburn, which can accelerate heat exhaustion
Food & Water Safety
- Eat from reputable vendors
- Avoid food that appears undercooked or improperly stored
- Stay hydrated with safe, sealed beverages
Public Safety & Crowd Awareness
Know Before You Go
- Review stadium policies (bags, entry, prohibited items)
- Plan transportation and parking in advance
- Expect increased traffic and delays
- Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return
- Consider utilizing location tool apps that work without a data connection such as what3words
- Massive public gatherings elevate the risk of human trafficking, report rather than intervene if you suspect someone is being trafficked
During Events
- Follow directions from law enforcement and event staff
- Identify emergency exits when you arrive
- Have a meeting point if attending with a group
If an Emergency Happens
- If you need emergency help, call 911 or seek help from trained professionals already onsite
- Stay calm and follow official instructions
- Use text messaging instead of calling when networks are busy
Travel & Community Considerations
Increased Visitors = Increased Risk
With international travel:
- There may be higher exposure to infectious diseases
- Health care systems may see increased demand
- Communication across languages and cultures becomes important
Human Trafficking Awareness
Large international events can increase the risk of human trafficking due to higher travel volume and large crowds. Staying aware of the signs of trafficking can help protect vulnerable individuals and keep communities safe. Signs may include someone appearing fearful, unable to speak freely, lacking control of personal identification or money, or being closely monitored by another person.
If you witness suspicious activity or believe someone may be in danger, contact local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733. Tips can be submitted confidentially, and support is available 24/7 in multiple languages.
What Missouri Residents Can Do
- Be patient with increased traffic and crowds
- Support local public health guidance
- Stay informed through local health departments
Health Care Access in the Kansas City Region
If you need care:
- Urgent care centers and hospitals will be prepared for increased demand
- Emergency services (911) remain available for serious situations
- Pharmacies can assist with minor health needs